Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie
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Serial measurement of mixed venous oxygen saturation is useful in the care of critically ill patients. It is an index of cardiac output and overall tissue perfusion. Previously, lack of refinement of the technology for continuous monitoring of mixed venous oxygen saturation deterred its clinical application. ⋯ The Oximetrix system proved reliable. Mixed venous oxygen saturation is a nonspecific indicator of hemodynamic status. Continuous monitoring of the mixed venous oxygen saturation facilitates optimal patient management by immediately alerting intensive care personnel to the development of inadequate tissue perfusion.